Name: Irresistibly Crunchy Cashew Brittle: Your Perfect Treat!
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Granulated Sugar (The primary sweetener, crucial for achieving the signature candy base.); 1/3 cup Light Corn Syrup (Helps to prevent crystallization.); 2 cups Roasted Cashew Halves (Adds crunch and earthy flavor.); 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (Brings richness and inhibits sticking.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Infuses warmth and depth of flavor.); 1 teaspoon Baking Soda (Introduces air bubbles for a light texture.); 1 pinch Salt (Optional, can balance sweetness.)

Irresistibly Crunchy Cashew Brittle: The Perfect Homemade Treat - Savory Splash

There's something truly magical about the crisp noise of brittle breaking into pieces, isn't there? As I made my way through my kitchen, inspired by the aroma of roasted cashews filling the air, it hit me-why not whip up a batch of irresistibly crunchy cashew brittle? This delightful homemade treat combines simplicity with indulgence, transforming a handful of ingredients into a sumptuous candy that's just as perfect for gifting as it is for snacking.

Imagine sharing this crispy creation with friends or adding it to your holiday dessert platter, each bite a testament to the comforting flavors of butter, vanilla, and toasted nuts. Trust me, once you experience the joy of crafting your own cashew brittle, fast food will feel like a distant memory. Ready to dive in? Let's create a sweet masterpiece that's bound to impress!

Why is Irresistibly Crunchy Cashew Brittle a Must-Try?

Simplicity at Its Best: The recipe involves just a handful of ingredients you probably already have at home.

Quick to Make: In under 30 minutes, you can have a delicious and crunchy treat ready to enjoy.

Gifting Made Easy: Package your cashew brittle in a decorative box for a thoughtful gift that your friends will love.

Versatile Flavor: Feel free to mix things up by using different nuts or adding a sprinkle of sea salt for extra depth.

Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it's a cozy night in or a festive gathering, this treat is sure to be a hit!

For more fun snack ideas, check out our collection of simple snack recipes.

Irresistibly Crunchy Cashew Brittle Ingredients

• Create your own sweet treat at home with these simple staples!

For the Brittle

Granulated Sugar - The primary sweetener, crucial for achieving the signature candy base.
Light Corn Syrup - Helps to prevent crystallization, ensuring a smooth and glossy texture.
Roasted Cashew Halves - Adds a delightful crunch and earthy flavor; toasting enhances their natural nuttiness.
Unsalted Butter - Brings richness to the mixture and inhibits sticking to pans.
Vanilla Extract - Infuses a warm aroma and depth of flavor that elevates the overall taste.
Baking Soda - Introduces air bubbles to create a light, airy texture in your brittle.
Salt (optional) - A pinch can balance the sweetness and deepen the flavor profile of the cashew brittle.

Get ready to whip up a batch of Irresistibly Crunchy Cashew Brittle that you and your loved ones will adore!

How to Make Irresistibly Crunchy Cashew Brittle

Prepare the Baking Sheet: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Generously spray it with non-stick spray to prevent the brittle from sticking.
Combine the Base Ingredients: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, mix together granulated sugar, light corn syrup, and unsalted butter. Continuously stir until the sugar has fully dissolved, and the mixture is smooth.
Bring to a Boil: Allow the mixture to come to a gentle boil without stirring. Keep a close eye on it, as you'll want to reach a medium to dark amber color, which should take about 6-8 minutes.
Add Baking Soda and Vanilla: Remove the saucepan from heat and quickly stir in baking soda and vanilla extract. Be cautious-the mixture will bubble up significantly!
Fold in the Cashews: Immediately add the roasted cashew halves, folding them into the caramel until they are fully coated. Work quickly to ensure an even distribution.
Spread on the Baking Sheet: Pour the mixture onto your prepped baking sheet. Using a spatula, spread it as thinly and evenly as possible for a perfect brittle texture.
Cool Before Breaking: Let the cashew brittle cool completely at room temperature. Once hardened, break it into pieces and enjoy!

Optional: Sprinkle with sea salt before it cools for an extra flavor boost.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Irresistibly Crunchy Cashew Brittle?

Indulge your senses and elevate your cashew brittle experience with delicious pairings that will delight your taste buds.

Chocolate Dipped Fruit: The richness of chocolate complements the nutty sweetness of the cashew brittle, creating a truly decadent treat. Fresh strawberries or bananas dipped in dark chocolate make a luxurious pairing.
Coffee: A warm cup of coffee can balance the sweetness of the brittle with its bold flavors. The aromatic notes provide a comforting backdrop, perfect for an afternoon snack.
Cheese Board: Serve your brittle alongside a selection of cheeses for a sweet and savory experience. Soft brie or aged cheddar contrast beautifully with the crunchy texture and sweetness.
Ice Cream: Crushed cashew brittle makes a delightful topping for vanilla or caramel ice cream. The creamy coolness of the ice cream pairs perfectly with the candy's crunch.
Fruit Salad: Fresh fruits like apples and pears add a refreshing element to your snacking. Their crispness and natural sweetness complement the brittle, creating a balanced treat.
Herbal Tea: A soothing cup of chamomile or mint tea can enhance the overall tasting experience. The light, herbal notes provide a serene contrast to the sugary brittle.
Dark Chocolate Bark: Elevate your sweet platter by adding dark chocolate bark sprinkled with sea salt. The bitterness of the chocolate and the crunch of the brittle create an irresistible combination.
Trail Mix: Mix your cashew brittle pieces with nuts and dried fruit for a fun, personalized trail mix. This pairing adds texture and energy, perfect for on-the-go snacking!

Cashew Brittle Variations

Feel free to personalize your cashew brittle with these fun twists that will delight your taste buds!

Nut Substitutions: Swap cashews for almonds, peanuts, or walnuts for a completely new flavor profile. Each nut brings its unique crunch and richness.
Sweet and Salty: Sprinkle a touch of sea salt over the top just before cooling for a delectable sweet-salty contrast that elevates every bite.
Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cayenne or ground cinnamon to the mixture for a warm, spicy kick that tantalizes your palate.
Chocolate-Covered Treat: After cooling, dip pieces of brittle in melted chocolate for an indulgent twist. Drizzle extra chocolate on top for a decorative finish!
Coconut Delight: Stir in unsweetened shredded coconut while folding in the nuts for a tropical flavor that pairs beautifully with the buttery sweetness.
Maple Sweetness: Replace granulated sugar with maple sugar or syrup for a rich, earthy sweetness that enhances the nutty flavors.
Toasty Boost: Toast your nuts before mixing them for an even deeper, richer flavor that makes each bite unforgettable.
Citrus Zest: Incorporate a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest into the mixture for a fresh, zesty surprise that brightens the candy.

Make Ahead Options

These Irresistibly Crunchy Cashew Brittle pieces are perfect for making ahead, making your snacking and gifting a breeze! You can prepare the cashew brittle up to 3 days in advance. Simply follow the recipe and allow the brittle to cool completely, then break it into pieces and store them in an airtight container at room temperature. For optimal freshness, be sure to keep the container sealed tightly to maintain that delightful crunch. When you're ready to serve or gift your homemade treat, it's as easy as decanting into decorative packaging or serving it on a platter-enjoy the same delicious flavor with minimal effort!

How to Store and Freeze Irresistibly Crunchy Cashew Brittle

Airtight Container: Store your cashew brittle in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks to maintain its crispness and flavor.

Avoid Humidity: Keep the container in a cool, dry place away from moisture and direct sunlight, which can cause the brittle to soften.

Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the brittle in an airtight bag or container for up to 3 months. Thaw it at room temperature before serving.

Reheating (if necessary): If the brittle loses its crunch after storage, gently reheat it in the oven at 200°F for a few minutes to restore its texture.

Expert Tips for Irresistibly Crunchy Cashew Brittle

Watch the Color: Keep an eye on your mixture as it boils; a medium to dark amber color is crucial for the perfect cashew brittle texture.
Use Fresh Cashews: Ensure your roasted cashew halves are fresh for the best flavor. Stale nuts can dull the sweetness and crunch you aim for.
Prep Everything First: Have all ingredients and tools ready before you start; the cashew brittle mixture sets quickly after adding baking soda!
Keep It Thin: Aim for a uniform, thin layer on the baking sheet to achieve that classic brittle texture. A thick pour will lead to a chewy outcome.
Store Properly: For optimal freshness, store your cashew brittle in an airtight container at room temperature, where it can last up to 2 weeks.

Irresistibly Crunchy Cashew Brittle Recipe FAQs

What kind of cashews should I use for this recipe?
I recommend using roasted cashew halves instead of raw for the best flavor and crunch. If you have raw cashews, you can roast them yourself in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until they are golden brown and fragrant.

How do I store leftover cashew brittle?
To keep your cashew brittle at its best, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. Make sure to place it in a cool, dry spot, away from humidity and direct sunlight, as moisture can cause the brittle to lose its delightful crunch.

Can I freeze cashew brittle?
Absolutely! For longer storage, you can freeze your cashew brittle. Just place it in an airtight bag or container, and it will stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it at room temperature before serving, or for a quick crunch revival, preheat your oven to 200°F and warm it for a few minutes.

What should I do if my cashew brittle turns out chewy?
If your cashew brittle ends up chewy instead of crunchy, it's often due to excessive moisture or not reaching the right temperature during cooking. To correct this, you can reheat it in the oven at 200°F for about 5-10 minutes. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning, and this will help revive some crispness.

Is cashew brittle safe for people with nut allergies?
Since cashew brittle contains cashews, it is not suitable for individuals with nut allergies. However, you can modify the recipe by substituting in seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds if you want to create a nut-free version. Please ensure that your kitchen and utensils are free from cross-contamination with nut products.

Can I add other flavors or ingredients to my cashew brittle?
Very! You can enhance the flavor of your cashew brittle by adding a sprinkle of sea salt before it cools or incorporating other nuts like almonds or walnuts for a different twist. If you enjoy a hint of spice, a pinch of cinnamon or cayenne can add a unique flavor profile to your brittle!